Island Origins Magazine - Spring 2020

Always a warm welcome in Greater Fort Lauderdale Discover a vibrant collection of cultures and activities in Greater Fort Lauderdale, the destination that is as inviting as it looks. Whether you’re soaking up the laid-back resort atmosphere or taking in the city’s cosmopolitan vibe, you’ll find that our rich, multicultural heritage is celebrated day and night.

Dinner and a show Taste Caribbean-style and Latin fusion cuisine, and some of the South’s best soul food and BBQ that highlight the area’s rich African American and island heritage. After dinner, check out an electric nightlife scene with an evening of jazz, blues, reggae or Latin music. Casinos and gaming keep the energy going 24/7. Broadway theater and international music and dance abound. So does a myriad of events saluting African American and Caribbean culture.

Major venues feature local and national artists in exhibits, concerts, plays and lectures year round. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, and the Cultural Centers or Miramar, Lauderhill and Pompano Beach offer some of the biggest performances.

Shop, shop Begin your shopping excursion with the eclectic boutiques along Las Olas Boulevard, known as the “style mile,” and at the upscale shops of the Galleria Mall.

Head to Sawgrass Mills, the world’s largest designer outlet mall, where you can stroll among more than 350 brand name outlets and off-price retail stores. Shop the 1,000,000 sq ft Westfield Broward Mall in Plantation and enjoy inspiring cultural events. Bargain retail therapy awaits in the Festival Flea Market and the Swap Shop and Drive-in.

Outdoor fun

After your relaxing beach time, unleash your adventurous side in the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The Florida Everglades is home to hundreds of species of birds, fish, alligators and more. At up to 40 mph, an airboat can whisk you along this epic “River of Grass” while giving you the best, up-close views.

Culture comes in many flavors in Greater Fort Lauderdale. We invite you to experience them all. sunny.org/multicultural

CONTENTS Spring | 2020

18 LIKKLE BUT TALLAWAH BRIANA WILLIAMS

MODERN MANOR 4

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FIELD OF DREAMS JAZZ CHISHOLM

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JERK FESTIVAL 2019

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CREDITS PUBLISHER Calibe Thompson BRAND STRATEGY & DISTRIBUTION David I. Muir BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Tamara Philippeaux EDITOR Monique McIntosh ART DIRECTOR Vladan Dojcinovic STYLE DIRECTOR Tanya Marie McLendon CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Monique McIntosh Felicity Darville Harold Peat Attiyya Atkins Tanya Marie McLendon Ghenete ‘G’ Wright Muir David I. Muir Dr. Mary Calibe Thompson

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HEALTH & BEAUTY Power Moves Fitness Goals for a New Me

STYLE & DESIGN 12. The List 26. A Fashionable Life TRAVEL 14. Jamaica Strong INVEST 28. Call It a Comeback: The Jamaica Stock Exchange INSPIRATION 30. Like a Boss CULTURE 32. Mental Health Matters

TASTE THE ISLANDS 36. From Screen to Table 38. Recipes: From Taste the Islands: Culinary Adventures in a Caribbean Kitchen 40. Alberte’s Haitian Restaurant 42. Restaurant Listing 44. EVENT CALENDAR

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David I. Muir 9THSHOT Christi Arce Arturo Lorde R.J. Deed ON THE COVER: The Strength Issue Bahamian-American Marlins shortstop Jazz Chisholm and Jamaican-American sprinter Briana Williams are set to take on the world. In our interviews with them, the young sports stars, both poised for meteoric rise, talk about staying connected to home while knocking on the door of greatness.

Photographer David I. Muir | Stylist Tanya Marie Design | Briana’s Makeup and Hair Shantell Leann (MakeUpByRoryLee.com) Copyright © 2020 by Island Syndicate. All rights reserved.

Island Origins Magazine is published by Island Syndicate.

This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a review. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at Island Syndicate, 1310 SW 2nd Ct #207, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. Printed in the United States of America.

Island Origins Magazine ℅ Island Syndicate 1310 SW 2nd Ct #207 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 417-812-5663 | islandoriginsmag.com support@islandsyndicate.com

48. FINAL THOUGHT

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HEALTH & BEAUTY // POWER MOVES

Krista sports bra and Lexi shorts (top), Bianca leggings and Mika logo tee (bottom left) and Bianca leggings and Krista sports bra (bottom right).

POWER MOVES WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY 9THSHOT

FORGET YOUR BASIC GYM SWEATS. TODAY’S CARIBBEAN DESIGNERS ARE REIMAGINING ACTIVEWEAR WORTHY OF THE RUNWAY AS WELL AS THE WEIGHT ROOM, INCORPORATING BOLD PRINTS AND MODERN, SEXY SILHOUETTES. TO UPGRADE YOUR EXERCISE GEAR—AND MAYBE MOTIVATE YOUR WORKOUT ROUTINE WITH A LITTLE RETAIL THERAPY— WE’VE ROUNDED UP THE HOTTEST ACTIVEWEAR COLLECTIONS FROM CARIBBEAN DESIGNERS.

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Left: Power bra and Power shorts.

Right: logo tee and Flex shorts.

PHOTO CHRISTI ARCE

Chrissy Violet sports bra and Bianca Violet leggings.

 TWIST

AND SHOUT: SEXY SWEATS

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREENFIT

For Haitian-American designer Melissa Dufour, feeling sexy and confident every day is a god-given right for every woman. Her risqué athleisure label, Sexy Sweats, based in South Florida, offers true testament to that belief. “This is not just your average sportswear, but rather a movement for women to showcase their confidence, sex appeal, and athletic lifestyle,” explains the designer.

This philosophy infuses every aspect of her designs, incorporating details that enhance and celebrate the female form. For water sports, her scuba-inspired bodysuits cut a lean figure, featuring a plunging zipper neckline and color-block panels that flatter curves. Her high-performance sports bras also give cleavage an extra boost while providing support, like her lowcut bustier design that’s reinforced with cross straps. Athletic mesh adds breathability—and a hint of skin—to her Lexi biker shorts. And bums always look their best in her popular Bianca leggings, thanks to intricate stitching details that perfectly frame your shape. The overall results create versatile pieces that you can dress down for dance class, or dress up for the dance floor. sexysweatswear.com

Bianca Lime Punch leggings and Chrissy Lime Punch sports bra.

Above: Power bra and Power shorts.

Below: Power Crop Top and Power shorts.

PHOTO CHRISTI ARCE

Chrissy sports bra and Bianca Leggings.

PHOTO ARTURO LORDE.

 TRACK

Left: Sports bra and ultra high waisted tights. Right: sports bra and Bold Moves shorts.

STAR SWAGGER: GREENFIT

When pursuing your fitness goals, sometimes you need a word of encouragement. Positivity is, writ large, all over Barbadian fitness and street apparel brand GreenFit, made for both men and women. The active line is the brainchild of Shenique Clarke, a graphic artist turned fashion designer inspired by her personal journey to create workout wear.

“I was fed up with the way I was feeling and decided to change my lifestyle,” recalls Clarke. “I was in the gym one day and everyone kept commenting on the shirt I had on. So I decided to start creating designs which expressed my

mood. I now use my experiences to inspire others and keep myself motivated.”

With confidence and tonguein-cheek wit, the brand today is known for its creative play on words and images. You can declare your badass status to the world with fun t-shirts, sports bras, tanks, shorts, joggers and hoodies emblazoned in “Beast Mode,” “Thickiana” and “Bajan Strong.” But these pieces are more than their looks.

Clarke also incorporates details like moisture-wicking fabric and mesh panels so her designs can work as hard as you do. greenfitactive.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY // FITNESS GOALS

FITNESS GOALS FOR A NEW ME

IT’S A NEW DECADE AND A NEW OPPORTUNITY TO ACHIEVE YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH AND FITNESS GOALS, BUILDING STRENGTH INSIDE AND OUT. WE TURNED TO THREE EXERCISE EXPERTS FOR TIPS CREATING (AND SUSTAINING) A SIMPLE, BALANCED WORKOUT REGIME. WRITER FELICITY DARVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

GET GOING Going faster, harder and stronger doesn’t always yield better results. Instead, small daily habits like a 15-20 minute walk can greatly improve your overall health, says Jamaican-American personal trainer RJ Deed, who’s based in Fort Lauderdale.

The trick however, is “to stay consistent. You won’t see results overnight, but if you make it a part of your lifestyle, you will see results.”

Afterwards, Deed recommends 10 minutes of stretching to keep the body nimble, then pushing a little further with ten burpees—one of the most effective exercises for building muscle.

PRO thTeIP toes

Open e your and driv to the in s e e kn This will ground. tension e th ll pu r knees from youvate the ti c a d an ps. quadrice

How To: Burpee • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms at your sides.

• Bend your knees and squat.

• Place your hands on the floor directly in front of, and just inside, your feet.

• Jump your feet back to softly land on the balls of your feet in a plank position. Your body should form a straight line from head to heels.

• Jump your feet forward, landing just outside of your hands.

• Reach your arms over your head and jump.

• Lower yourself back into a squat for your next repetition. * To modify for knee or back issues, skip the jumps and step forward and back instead, alternating legs. Support your arms with a box or heavy chair to decrease upper-body strain.

O TIP

PR l not to Be carefuck sag or ba r u o y t le stick up your butt, as both in the air you from can keeply working effectiver core. you

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ENGAGE YOUR HEART A healthy body starts with a healthy mind, so a well-rounded exercise regime should engage your emotional needs, says Sheba Munn Thompson, a Jamaican-American hot yoga instructor at the Sol Yoga studio in Fort Lauderdale. “Stress can have a devastating effect on your overall health, causing a string of tension throughout the human body,” she explains. “We also tend to hold emotional trauma in our hips. As we say in yoga, closed hips lead to a closed heart.” To open up the hips and the heart, she suggests the simple “Kapotasana” or pigeon pose.

How-To: Pigeon Pose

KEEP IT SIMPLE The road to failed workout resolutions is lined with overpriced equipment. Our bodies already come fully equipped, says Carlos Alonso, a Fort Lauderdale-based personal trainer with roots in Cuba and Colombia. Known as the “Squat Doctor,” Alonso loves recommending this exercise to his clients. “A squat is a functional movement, something we do in everyday life,” he notes. “And it’s the No. 1 movement to boost testosterone, which decreases as we age.” The hormone is associated with sustaining bone density and muscle mass in both men and women.

How To: Squat • Start with a shoulder-width stance facing forward, keeping your back straight and clenching your stomach.

• Extend arms, either straight ahead or holding hands, for balance.

• Inhale, squeezing in your abdominals.

• Bend your knees and sit back, aiming for an imaginary chair. Hinge your hips back. Hold your breath, ensuring your knees don’t pass over your toes as you descend.

• Exhale as you stand up to repeat.

• Sitting down, start with five full breaths, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth.

• Move to a tabletop position on your hands and knees, palms down.

• Move your right knee forward, behind the inside of your right wrist.

• Extend your left leg behind you, in a straight line from hip to toe.

• Lift your upper body from your fingertips, elongating your spine.

• Gently heel-toe your right foot towards your left wrist. Work your ankle forward as much as possible, so your shin is perpendicular to your torso.

• Gently work your right hip back and left hip forward to square your hips.

• If comfortable, lift torso and rest hands on thighs.

• Once properly aligned, walk your hands forward lowering your torso onto your shin, resting your forehead on the floor. Hold for five full breaths.

Repeat on the other side.

PRO aTyIP oga

Place rolledblock or l under e w to p u t hip to your righ th hips o b n g li a to the parallel r. floo

STYLE & DESIGN // MODERN MANOR

MODERN

MANOR

WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF INTERIORS BY STEVEN G

FROM ITS ART DECO ROOTS TO TODAY’S GLISTENING GLASS SKYSCRAPERS, MIAMI HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PLAYGROUND FOR CUTTING-EDGE DESIGN. AND FEW HAVE MASTERED THE MAGIC CITY’S FORWARD-THINKING PERSPECTIVE LIKE BRIAN DUMERIVIL, A LEAD DESIGNER AT INTERIORS BY STEVEN G.

Though a Canadian transplant, it didn’t take long for the Montreal native to adapt to the contemporary oasis in the sunshine—perhaps because of his own Caribbean heritage (his mother hails from Trinidad and Tobago, while his father has roots in Haiti). “The culture is so mixed down here,” notes Dumervil. “I think what helps with my background is just my openness to different ways of thinking and different ways of life.”

He certainly tapped into this sensibility when designing a model condo project at Park Grove—the luxe residential tower project in Co-

conut Grove. Inspired by the property’s tropical foliage and stunning views of the bay, “we wanted to bring the outside in, so we kept the palette neutral,” says the designer. The result is a medley of warm whites and silvery grays framing the greenery outdoors. Rich walnut finishes used throughout also introduce organic qualities into the streamlined space.

To add dimension to the new build, he incorporated additional interior architectural features, like the LED-illuminated troughs highlighting the 11-foot-tall ceiling. Textured statement features like the detailed wall millwork in

the great room was also installed—a distinctive feature in Dumervil’s work. “I really believe that the architectural background is important to focus on first and foremost,” he explains. “So I like to treat our feature walls with something so they can hold their own within the space. We want to make sure that we have the canvas to display our furnishings.”

When selecting these pieces, the designer also kept true to the contemporary architecture with modern Italian designs that “were contemporary, but comfortable. This allows us to focus more on the texture, accessories and artwork.”

DINING ROOM: When entering the great room, “the dining area is the first thing you see,” notes Dumervil. To attract the eye immediately, “I knew I wanted something sculptural for the base of that table.” This wavelike design fits the brief perfectly, accentuated with a glass top.

He continued the warm walnut finish along the trim of the dining chairs “to tie everything together.” To preserve sight lines throughout the space, he chose a linear lighting fixture “that wouldn’t interfere with the view.”

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LIVING ROOM The designer carved out cozy intimacy for the main seating area with the large striped area rug. “It’s very important to anchor your furniture with a correctly scaled area rug to distinguish the space from everywhere else,” explains Dumervil. “In South Florida, we use a lot of hard surfaces. But if you’re lounging in your living room, you want something soft under your feet. So we made sure to have the rug run to the edge of the sofa.” He also kept the modular sectional restrained, adding patterns and texture with throw pillows. This “allows the homeowners to change the look easily by replacing accessories.”

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STYLE & DESIGN // MODERN MANOR

BEDROOM: Sleek contemporary lines continue in the master bedroom, featuring the designer’s signature floor-to-ceiling paneling instead of a conventional headboard. Though preserving the bed’s modern low profile, it was also important to maintain “a minimum standard height for comfort” with a raised frame and platform. To complete the space, he added sculptural club chairs with a U-shaped silhouette.

“Because they float in front of the bed, it was important to have some character in the piece.”

DEN Even in an expansive apartment, economical use of square footage is always crucial, especially in this den area conceived as “flexible space,” says Dumervil.

“Considering how the room needs to function is so important.” By day, this room serves as a lounge area. Instead of a cumbersome coffee table, three tree stumps transformed into cocktail tables provide the same functionality with a slimmer footprint. The trunks help “bring more notes of nature into the apartment.” They are also easy to move at night, giving way for the sleeper sofa to be converted into a bed.

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HOMES THAT MATCH

LIFE + STYLE

SHARON WONG HOLLIS

InterAction Realty info@SharonWhollis.com

www.SharonWhollis.com

954.295.9282

7801 W. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33351 Each office is independently owned and operated

T HE LIST REFRESH AND RENEW



LILI BERMUDA SUNKISS AND NAUTILUS FRAGRANCE

Get transported from everyday woes with the uplifting aura crafted by luxe perfumery Lili Bermuda, from their flirty Sunkiss fragrance with notes of orange flower and vanilla, to their gentlemanly Nautilus scent conjuring the romance of stormy seas with aquatic notes.

Sunkiss: $150 Nautilus: $95 lilibermuda.com



HOISELLE NEROLI C ISLE FACE ELIXIR

Being fresh faced never felt so good. Enjoy a glow boost from this nutrient-rich serum oil. Inspired by classic island remedies, St. Lucianborn model and skin maven Nydia Norville blends a bevy of extracts from neroli to soursop. $12 Choiselle.com



THE CARIBBEAN HUT UNDER SEA CANDLE

Take the calming ocean wherever you go with these handcrafted candles wafting refreshing sea breeze scents. Designed by Caribbean-Canadian Amanda Bryan, each Under Sea Candle features real sand and seashells. $14.49. thecaribbeanhut.com



END TO END CHAIR

A quiet moment of meditation feels extra sleek in this chic chaise lounge, available at Karmen’s Kollection and Furnitureland in Jamaica. The contemporary lines are softened with plush upholstery in cozy warm shades. karmenskollection.net



KIARA VERMILLION JUMPSUIT

Dressing up never felt so easy in the flowing kaftans and jumpsuits of Jamaican designer Janel Jolly. We particularly love the flattering lines of this effortless jumpsuit in warm, spicy shades. $140 Jaejolly.com

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If you need a mortgage, we need to talk.

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TRAVEL // JAMAICA STRONG

JAMAICA

STRONG WHEN YOUR BODY AND MIND TELL YOU IT’S TIME TO TAKE A BREAK FROM THE MUNDANE STRESSES AND STRAINS OF LIFE, EXPLORING A NEW PLACE CAN PROVIDE THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR A REBOOT. THOSE SEEKING REJUVENATION CAN DISCOVER A FOUNTAIN OF RENEWAL ALONG JAMAICA’S NORTH COAST. FROM THE LUSH GREENERY OF PORT ANTONIO TO THE EAST, TO THE DECADENT SPAS OF MONTEGO BAY FURTHER WEST, WE SOUGHT OUT THE BEST PLACES TO RECHARGE. WHICHEVER LOCALE YOU EXPLORE, YOU’RE BOUND TO END YOUR RETREAT ENERGIZED AND INSPIRED FOR WHATEVER COMES YOUR WAY. WRITER HAROLD PEAT

Boston Beach, Portland

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Natural Mystic: Portland Known affectionately as “Portie” by locals, the parish of Portland remains an authentic slice of Jamaica, removed from the hectic vibes of the island’s main tourist hubs. It doesn’t hurt that the area is especially blessed with natural wonders—the heavier rainfall makes the land lush with thick rainforests that meld into lagoons and beaches. These features all combine to cre-

Surfing waves at Long Bay, Portland

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ate a soothing natural environment that invites and inspires.

To Explore: With a long stretch of coastline, Portland’s beaches boast both high waves and smooth waters. Build your stamina surfing at Boston Bay and Long Bay—offering some of the best waves on the island. You can also rebuild your strength from battling the

currents at the nearby Boston Jerk Center, the iconic spot for authentic and traditional jerk.

When you seek a spiritual reconnection to nature, you will be rewarded by trekking Portland’s verdant trails. The stunning natural surroundings motivate movement, encouraging explorers to wander the lush hillsides of San San.

All in the Family: Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay thentic and wholesome delights at the amazing Miss T’s Kitchen in Ocho Rios. Tucked away just off the main thoroughfare, this memorable dining spot draws you away from the noise of the town into a rustic and welcoming dining space, inviting you to linger in conversation with your loved ones long after the meal. In addition to classic Jamaican dishes, the restaurant offers fresh and healthy vegan fare, from creamy coconut vegetable rundown to spicy chickpea curry.

To Stay: Taking on new challenges feels easier when you’re with a crew. And it PHOTO JEWEL PARADISE COVE BEACH RESORT

Amid the bustle of popular beach towns like Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay along the island’s central north coast, one can still find enclaves of intimacy to reconnect with loved ones and take on new challenges together. For young families and couples, it’s worth it to wander off the beaten path, away from the big resorts and commercial districts, to discover something new and authentic about Jamaica—and about themselves.

To Explore: If we are what we eat, then nothing satisfies the soul quite like the au-

The spa at Jewel Paradise Cove, Runaway Bay

Other beautiful sites to explore include Reach Falls, a series of tiered cascades that tumble from one jade-colored pool to the next. You can dive in some of the deeper pools, then continue on a half-mile hike up the river through the rainforest to Mandingo Cave.

Exploring Somerset Falls provides another invigorating experience, where you follow a winding path through rich landscapes to the deep rock pools and natural caves where the Daniels River falls into a 20-foot deep pool.

To Stay: Tucked away in the rainforests of San San overlooking the water, the chic Geejam Hotel provides the perfect place to escape. Though recently expanded, the hotel retains its boutique intimacy, and provides on-site snorkeling, scuba diving and freediving. No wonder the hotel has become a favorite getaway for international musicians like Drake, Alicia Keys, and John Legend, who come for creative inspiration at the hotel’s villa and accompanying stateof-the-art recording studio nestled among the trees.

feels extra luxurious at the Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa. This Runaway Bay property offers an invigorating healthand-wellness program that’s ideal for group experiences. Take on the great outdoors with their wide roster of classes that include water aerobics, spinning, yoga, beach volleyball and soccer. Explore their nature hiking trails and join in on a little beach cricket. After a day testing your limits in the sun, nothing refreshes like their on-site spa, featuring organic, plantbased treatments.

Kayaking in Runaway Bay

The cascading waters at Reach Falls, Portland

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Strength to Strength: Montego Bay

PHOTO COURTESY OF S HOTEL

TRAVEL // JAMAICA STRONG

You may know Montego Bay as the ultimate destination for a chill vacation — the perfect place to spend days lounging on the beach, taking in the sun. But travelers and locals alike may not know the Second City’s more adventurous side, filled with attractions that will get your heart racing, and spas that will heal you up for the next escapade.

To Explore: Get your bike shorts out.

Avid cyclists from around the country and around the world gather for the ever popular Jamaica Reggae Ride—the extreme three-day bike tour that runs from Negril through Montego Bay to Ocho Rios. If running for a cause is more your speed, check out the annual MoBay City Run, the 10K/5K event held every May to raise funds for local education. If you can’t make it to these special events, you can still find your adrenaline rush here any time of year. For example, try flying over the treetops on the popular zip line tour at the Montpelier Jungle Outpost, located just outside the city.

To Stay: After an adrenaline-filled day, recover for your next adventure at the Irie Baths And Spa, located at the luxurious S Hotel. Their holistic wellness program takes inspiration from therapeutic treatments both old and new, from the subterranean marble plunge pools inspired by ancient Rome, to kinetic energy therapy designed to improve circulation. Guests can also sample other rejuvenating massages, using local ingredients: think invigorating Blue Mountain coffee grounds for exfoliation and 100 percent cold-pressed coconut oil for that healthy glow.

PHOTO JANET SILVERA/MOBAY CITY RUN

S Hotel’s Irie Baths and Spa, Montego Bay

Competitors at the annual MoBay City Run, Montego Bay

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Ziplining at Montpelier Jungle Outpost, Montego Bay

Turn up the Tempo Do you feel it?

Let’s go!

visitjamaica.com

FEATURE // BRIANA WILLIAMS

LIKKLE BUT TALLAWAH Briana Williams WRITER: STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY: DAVID I. MUIR STYLIST: TANYA MARIE DESIGN MAKEUP: SHANTELL LEANN (MAKEUPBYRORYLEE.COM)

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THE 2008 SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES IN BEIJING BECAME A LANDMARK MOMENT IN TRACK AND FIELD, AS FANS AROUND THE WORLD CHEERED THE RECORDBREAKING PERFORMANCES OF JAMAICAN TITANS LIKE USAIN BOLT AND SHELLY-ANN FRASER PRYCE.

“FOR MY DREAMS TO COME ALIVE AT MY YOUNG AGE IS A BLESSING FOR ME”

B

ut for a little Jamaican-American girl glued to the TV screen in South Florida, that summer marked the beginning of a lifelong love affair with the sport. Now 17 years old, track star Briana Williams is following in the footsteps of her Olympic idols, running for Jamaica and blazing a path on the world stage with records of her own.

The track wunderkind has risen to the top of her age bracket as the Jamaican national under-20 record holder in the 100 and 200 meters, with gold medals from the World Under-20 and Pan American Under-20 Championships. She also won back-to-back Austin Sealy MVP Awards at the CARIFTA Games—a feat previously accomplished by her idol, Usain Bolt. 2019 became a breakout year for Williams, ranked as the 6th fastest woman of the year according to Track & Field News.

And 2020 only promises to be brighter. In January, she turned pro with a multi-year Nike sponsorship. “For my dreams to come alive at my young age is a blessing for me,” says Williams.

This sparkling success has been the product of nearly a decade of work. She started training as an eight year old at Miramar Optimist Track Club in Miramar, Florida and at age 12, began running under the tutelage of Trinidad-born Olympian and NBC Sports analyst, Ato Boldon.

“She’s fearless,” shares Boldon about Williams, who stands out from the pack “because of her immense poise. There’s always some new prodigy coming along, but when they get exposed to the pressure at a very high level, most of them cannot handle it. But in Briana’s case, since she was 16, she’s been running against Olympic champions and excelling.”

Among her impressive accomplishments, however, it’s the opportunity to run for the black, green and gold that makes her most proud.

Growing up, she maintained close ties to her mother Sharon’s homeland, visiting Jamaica every year. At age nine, a special gift—a uniform worn by the very same athletes she idolized at the Beijing Olympics—sparked fledgeling dreams of joining Team Jamaica. “I remember loving so much how it looked,” says Williams. “It just looked so right.”

But it was a trip to Kingston to see the famed high school track-and-field event, the ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls Championships, that sealed the deal. “I wanted to be just like them,” she recalls about watching her peers compete.

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FEATURE // BRIANA WILLIAMS

SHE HAS BECOME AN INSPIRATION FOR OTHER YOUNG GIRLS GLUED TO THEIR TV SCREENS, DREAMING OF GOLD.

“I loved how much Jamaica loves track and respects its athletes.”

On her personal journey, there have been hurdles and heartbreaks along the way, including injuries like the hamstring strain that benched her from training and competition for months.

The hardest adversity to overcome though, was the tragic loss of her father to cancer when she was just six. “It has been difficult, and there have been hard times when you would need your father around,” confesses Williams. “I’m so sad he never got to see me run, but I hope

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he’s proud of me.”

Pressing through her challenges has made her particularly close with her mother, Sharon. “We got through it together,” says Williams. “And it’s been really great to have her by my side. For all of my events, she’s been there. She’s always been very supportive of me.”

“It’s so easy to root for Briana when you realize what she had to overcome,” notes Boldon.

“And she’s a real tribute to how Sharon has raised her as a single mother.”

As she gears up for her bold march to the

Olympics, she confesses to still watching tapes of her idols in action. Only now, she has become an inspiration for other young girls glued to their TV screens, dreaming of gold.

“I’m happy that girls look up to me,” said Williams. Wise beyond her years, she also had some special words of advice for those seeking to follow in her footsteps. “For all the girls out there, you have to work hard, and sometimes you may have to make sacrifices too. There will be tough times, but once you believe in yourself and know that you can do it, you will reach your goals.”

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FEATURE // JAZZ CHISHOLM

FIELD OF

DREAMS Jazz Chisholm WRITER: STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY: DAVID I. MUIR STYLIST: TANYA MARIE DESIGN

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EVEN AS A TODDLER, JASRADO “JAZZ” CHISHOLM SEEMED DESTINED FOR BASEBALL GREATNESS—A FATE HIS GRANDMOTHER MADE EVERY EFFORT TO ENSURE WOULD BE WITHIN HIS REACH.

W

hile other Nassau boys whiled away their playtime, Grandma Patricia Coakley, a former Bahamian national softball shortstop, was taking a two-year-old Jazz to the ballpark for practice.

“She took me to that field every weekend.

It didn’t matter,” recalls Chisholm about those earliest memories. “She would just throw balls at me and tell me to hit it. And that’s what I did.”

Those days tossing balls in the sun have paid off big dividends. Now signed with Roc Nation Sports, the 22 year old is stepping into the spotlight as the Miami Marlins’ powerhouse shortstop in the Major Leagues.

After joining the Arizona Diamondbacks as an international free agent in 2015, Chisholm quickly earned a reputation for his speed and power left-handed batting. In 2018, the Diamondbacks named him their Minor League Player of the Year. So it felt natural when the Miami Marlins plucked him for a multi-year contract, making him only the seventh Bahamian in history to join the Major Leagues. “[He] has a rare combination of speed and athleticism,” says Miami Marlins president of baseball operations, Michael Hill. “When you talk about his tool package and what he brings to the table, it’s gold glove defense.

It’s power from a position that you don’t expect power from. I think the sky’s the limit when you talk about what he can do on a baseball field.”

Though Chisholm is now claiming the spotlight stateside, home never feels too far away. “I’d always go back and forth to visit,” says Chisholm. “The people see me and they react to me just as the kid that they always used to see.” Even his childhood teachers are proud to see the troublemaker who was always diving and sliding through their classrooms, realizing his dreams. “They remember my growth in Nassau, and I am still part of the community.”

Chisholm has become a teacher in his own right, regularly returning home to host youth baseball clinics in The Bahamas. These camps aim to help young players hone their fundamental technical skills and build self-esteem.

“One day I want them to say that Jazz helped me to be this person, even if they don’t become a baseball player,” shares Chisholm.

“I just want them to say Jazz helped me to become successful.”

Becoming a Miami Marlin has given him so many other opportunities to support The Bahamas, like volunteering with the team’s relief efforts last year in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. “It was so heartwarming seeing so many fans coming together to give back,” recalls Chisholm.

It’s moments like these that have made Miami feel more like home for the player, a reaction that has revived in him his childhood joy for the game. “I’m super happy to be a

“ONE DAY I WANT THEM TO SAY THAT JAZZ HELPED ME TO BE THIS PERSON, EVEN IF THEY DON’T BECOME A BASEBALL PLAYER,” SHARES CHISHOLM. “I JUST WANT THEM TO SAY JAZZ HELPED ME TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL.” islandoriginsmag.com

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FEATURE // JAZZ CHISHOLM

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“I’M SUPER HAPPY TO BE A MARLIN,” SAYS CHISHOLM. “IT FEELS JUST LIKE I’M BACK PLAYING BASEBALL AT THE PARK WHEN I WAS 12 YEARS OLD.”

Marlin,” says Chisholm. “It feels just like I’m back playing baseball at the park when I was 12 years old.”

And of course, Grandma Coakley is always on the sidelines, celebrating his success. In fact, she was there for his first game with the Marlins, cheering in the crowd. Baseball still remains a big family affair, as his relatives loyally keep track of his games, whether in per-

son, or rooting from home in The Bahamas. He jokes that he seems to play his best games on Mother’s Day—a fact that was not lost on the men in his family, his father and grandfather.

“My granddad was like, ‘hey, you always hit a home run on Mother’s Day. Are you ever going to hit one for us?’”

And indeed he delivered right on schedule for Father’s Day 2019. “I sent them a text say-

ing ‘next up at bat, I got you for sure,’ and I got that home run for them,” recalls Chisholm.

The moment remains a precious memory for him, as a chance to give back to the people who have always supported him on his journey. “Once you have someone in your corner to help you with what you are going through, the challenges shouldn’t be that hard. You don’t have to face them alone.”

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FEATURE // A FASHIONABLE LIFE

a fashionable WITH TANYA MARIE THE DESIGNER

Pair a TM Goddess red, handembellished silk halter maxi with black lace pants and coordinating silk duster.

(Left) Add glitz with mixed-metal vases filled with leaves from the garden, a mirrored jewelry box and high-end books. (Right) Make it artsy with ethnic-themed coffee-table books, and thrift store pieces like the carved wood “LOVE” box.

MARK AND MARIE CAMERON LIVE IN A STUNNING TUDOR-STYLE HOME, WHERE I COMBINED GLAM AND ARTSY TO SEAMLESSLY REPRESENT BOTH THEIR PERSONALITIES.

AN ALIGNMENT OF FASHION AND ART Marie, a top executive at Carnival cruise lines, is a fierce and beautiful fashionista with the most humble spirit and a heart of gold.

Husband Mark Cameron is an artist, chef, furniture maker, poet and political activist.

WRITER TANYA MARIE MCLENDON @TANYAMARIETHEDESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

MOBILE MASTERPIECES To create a dynamic look that the couple can change to suit whatever foliage is in bloom, I mixed huge woven planters with large branches and leaves from their backyard garden. Mark’s artwork is propped on the back of the sofa so he can change it as often as he paints a new masterpiece without drilling holes in the wall.

The A.R.T. pillows, mixed in with some store-bought shag ones, are from my new home collection.

Paint splattered cargo shorts and a Miguel Duvon crocheted shirt with Kente cloth accents are accessorized with African wood beads and a handmade turban.

INVEST // CALL IT A COMEBACK: JAMAICA STOCK EXCHANGE

CALL IT A COMEBACK The Jamaica Stock Exchange WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

WHILE JAMAICA IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS DOMINANCE ON THE TRACK, THE ISLAND IS NOT-SOQUIETLY DOMINATING IN ANOTHER SURPRISING REALM—THE INTERNATIONAL STOCK MARKET. IN 2018, BLOOMBERG RANKED the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSSE) as the bestperforming market in the world, generating the highest rate of returns. This strong showing continued in 2019, when it was ranked as the 5th highest in the world on returns, earning an average 34 percent on investments. For the past five years, stocks have surged over 600 percent overall—achieving the world’s best performance among international markets.

This Cinderella story marks a dramatic turn of events for the island. At the beginning of the 2010s, Jamaica had been laboring under mountains of debt, says Leary Mullings, founding senior partner at Crichton Mullings & Associates, a Miramar-based business consultancy serving clients in the U.S. and Jamaica. The government, in order to raise capital, “had to offer higher interest rates to encourage people to buy their bonds, just to get money to pay teachers and police,” he explains. “This only created a vicious cycle, because they had to borrow more and more money just to pay this growing debt.”

The debt fever finally broke in 2013, when Jamaica took a controversial US$1billion, fouryear loan from the International Monetary Fund—a decision which received intense criti-

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cism for fear of further economic constraint.

The loan agreement, however, finally helped “wean government off of all this borrowed money,” says Mullings. Tax collection was enhanced, and more financial accountability was required from government departments. This became a boon for the stock exchange. As bond interest rates fell, institutional and individual investors at home and abroad turned to the market for more opportunities.

Thanks to some forward-thinking innovations the government created the Junior Market, allowing smaller emerging companies to raise capital on the stock exchange. The Junior Market, Mullings explains, “has helped a number of companies really come out of their shadows, and grow to become national entities.” The market has also become a valuable resource for non-profits. The Alpha Institute, a 140-year-old charity serving at-risk youth, is turning to the exchange to raise JA$19 million to support their work.

Investing is far from a millionaire’s game.

Mullings continues, “The government has privatized a number of companies, tailoring the listings for small investors.” The Manchester-based Wigton Windfarm Limited is the most recent success story. The former government entity launched its initial public

offering (IPO) last May, generating JA$14 billion for just 50 cents a share. Over a third of the buyers were first-time investors.

The future remains bright as the market continues to innovate and improve accessibility. Last December, JSSE adopted Nasdaq trading technology, which will greatly improve investors’ ability to monitor trade activities, strengthening the market’s integrity.

For those among the diaspora interested in investing, the process has become easier, with 13 certified, locally-based brokerage houses to facilitate their needs. Internet trading is available through the market’s online platform, JTrader. Trading through a broker allows investors to avoid charges like stamp duty and transfer taxes, which are significantly higher than the average brokerage fees. To open an account, potential investors need a Jamaican bank account, proof of identity, proof of address and a tax registration number. Some firms will also require references.

Though the future is never certain in any market, it’s clear the JSSE is on the right track.

“This is really the time for small investors to participate,” advises Mullings. “Based on our analysis of the economy, we expect the conditions that support the strong performance of the exchange to continue for some time.”

INSPIRATION // LIKE A BOSS

LIKE A BOSS

FOR SOME, BUSINESS IS JUST BUSINESS—MAKING A PROFIT FOR PROFIT’S SAKE. BUT A NEW GENERATION OF BUSINESSWOMEN ACROSS THE CARIBBEAN DIASPORA IS PAYING IT FORWARD — BUILDING STRONGER COMPANIES AS WELL AS COMMUNITIES. WE CONNECTED WITH TWO OF THESE INSPIRING CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN WOMAN ENTREPRENEURS CHANGING THE GAME: BEAUTY BUSINESS MAVEN ROCHELLE GRAHAM-CAMPBELL OF ALIKAY NATURALS, AND MEDIA PIONEER WANDA TIMA-GILLES OF L’UNION SUITE. THESE INNOVATORS SHARE THE SECRETS TO THEIR SUCCESS, THE CHALLENGES ALONG THE WAY, AND WHAT IT MEANS TO USE YOUR ANCESTRY TO CREATE A LEGACY. WRITER ATTIYYA ATKINS PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

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NATURAL BEAUTY

Rochelle Graham-Campbell College is a time for personal transformation. In 2008, University of South Florida student Rochelle Graham-Campbell was going through hers. She had decided to leave relaxers behind and embrace her natural texture. Hair care after the “big chop” however, wasn’t pretty, with only mainstream products filled with harsh chemicals at her disposal.

So she turned to her Jamaican roots, whipping up homemade aloe vera and avocado hair treatments inspired by her grandmother’s natural formulas.

These concoctions may have stayed a family secret if Rochelle hadn’t shared the goods on her YouTube channel, BlackOnyx77, which soon attracted millions of views and loyal followers begging her to sell her homemade blends. With just $100 in savings, the 22-year old launched haircare venture, Alikay Naturals. Now her company

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CULTURAL CONNECTION Wanda Tima-Gilles

Growing up in South Florida, Wanda Tima-Gilles was culture-starved when it came to her Haitian roots. When she was just a baby, she left the island of her birth with her family. Once stateside however, her Haitian parents forbade her from speaking Creole and visiting home. “My mom was only about lakay [home], lekol [school], and legliz [church],” shares Wanda about her upbringing. “I was a Haitian, but had no connections to my country. As a Haitian-American, I just wanted to know more.”

Seeking a deeper connection, Wanda began researching Haiti online. What she found, however, wasn’t inspiring, and didn’t truly feel reflective of the island’s rich culture. “I would only see things about how Haiti was filled with poverty and starving children,” she said. “There had to be more to Haiti than that.”

That unrelenting thought was the start of a passion project that would, in 2011, become L’Union Suite—a media company that highlights and celebrates the Haitian diaspora throughout the world. Starting out as a humble blog, L’Union Suite is now the No. 1 Haitian

has grown into a multi-million dollar lifestyle brand, operating at a 7,000 square foot facility in Fort Myers, Florida, where they distribute their products around the country through Target, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond and more.

The products, like her popular lemongrass leave-in conditioner and shea butter hair moisturizer, are free from parabens, alcohol, silicone, petroleum and sulfates. She considers her products “a tropical escape for the mind, body and soul” that encourages hard-working women to embrace their natural beauty.

Rochelle attributes much of her Cinderella success story to harnessing the power of the web.

“Social media has helped me build my brand essentially for free,” she explains. “I started my YouTube channel without the mindset of a business, building connections with a community.

But I was able to leverage that community and capitalize on that audience by converting them into customers. That allowed my business to

media platform with over 10 million visitors weekly. Her work for the community has led to features in Forbes, Black Enterprise, and the Miami Herald—transitioning her from a young girl who didn’t know anything about her roots, to a world-renowned expert on Haitian culture and issues.

On the site, readers can tune into a witty and incisive podcast, discussing all things Haitian pop culture. They can also explore the latest news from Haiti and across the diaspora, and read exclusive interviews with Haitian luminaries.

L’Union Suite has now become an essential platform, featuring Haitian celebrities like NFL football players Pierre Garcon and Mackensie Alexander, community leaders like digital media strategist Karen Civil, and business people like TV producer Mona Scott-Young.

Since the very beginning, the site has enjoyed the enthusiastic support of the community. “Once I started, more and more Haitians wanted to be recognized and featured on my blog, and wanted me to cover events.” Making the transition to full-time entrepreneurship, however, was a labor of love.

grow and get noticed by superstores like Target and Walmart.”

She advises budding entrepreneurs to nurture their social media presence into meaningful commerce. “You must have a strategy to keep your socials compelling. Think about what your audience needs and provide them with something of value.”

Rochelle regarded her venture seriously from the start. “As black people, we are operating in our areas of genius and passion, but are not getting paid for it. We’re providing a service for people, but are afraid to charge for it because ‘it’s just a hobby.’”

Instead, Rochelle encourages small business owners to not sell themselves short. “Take it seriously from the beginning,” she said. “Time is an asset and it’s not something that you should take lightly.” She enforces these principles in her new book 90 Days to CEO, providing tactical knowledge for budding entrepreneurs. She also

She was taking classes online and traveling to Haiti on the weekends—all while working a 40-hour week.

“I was exhausted,” Wanda confesses. “It was just me traveling with all these cameras on my back and a bunch of apps. It was like 10 people were working for me.” After she had saved up six months worth of expenses, she was ready to quit her job and dive all the way into L’Union Suite.

She was still apprehensive, however. “I was like God, you need to give me a sign,” recalls Wanda. “And... he did. The day after I quit, the Obama White House administration called me to cover an event for Caribbean Heritage Month. That’s all I needed.”

Behind all the hard work and sacrifices, she hopes sharing the stories of Haitians around the world will inspire more people of Haitian descent to leave a legacy. “I want to encourage people to know that they can do anything they want to do,” shares Wanda to those dreaming of launching their own ventures. “Don’t overthink it. If there is a missing piece, link it, and remember: prayer, passion, and purpose.”

launched Rochelle Graham Business University, a new online business course.

Teaching others to lead themselves became a foundational strategy when she established her own operations. “One of the biggest reasons people struggle with work-life balance is because they refuse to give up control or ask for help,” explains Rochelle about a common entrepreneurial pitfall. “They fear that no one will be able to do what they do when it comes to their business.

If you can’t ask for help or teach someone else to do what you do, then you aren’t running a scalable business.”

This strategy has also helped Rochelle focus on what keeps her grounded—her family. “I set uncompromised time with my family. Period. No matter how demanding your business life gets, just remember that business without family is lonely, both physically and mentally. Don’t consider your family separate. Start thinking about how you can integrate them into your life.”

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CULTURE // MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Mental Health

MATTERS WRITER GHENETE “G” WRIGHT MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

I THOUGHT I WAS DYING WHEN I HAD MY FIRST PANIC ATTACK. MY HEART RACED AND I FELT SICK TO MY STOMACH. A FRIEND RUSHED ME TO THE DOCTOR, BUT THEY FOUND NOTHING PHYSICALLY WRONG WITH ME. THIS WOULD BE THE FIRST OF MANY ATTACKS. I CONFIDED IN MY MOM, WHO WAS LUCKILY FAR MORE AWARE OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES THAN THE TYPICAL JAMAICAN, AND WHO HELPED ME GET COUNSELING. AFTER YEARS OF TREATMENT, I NOW HAVE THE TOOLS AND COPING MECHANISMS THAT HELP ME MANAGE MY PANIC ATTACKS AND RELIEVE MUCH OF MY ANXIETY. 32

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kept my therapy secret for years. “I have to run an errand, I’ll be back,” was my typical explanation for why I would be missing from the office.

Why did seeking help have to be so covert? Did it come from the fact that so many Caribbean people equate the idea of mental health with that of mental illness, and the fear we have about addressing either openly? That we would be perceived as the quintessential ‘mad men’ seen walking down many an island city street—tattered clothes, matted hair and talking to themselves. All alone.

Now more and more Caribbean folks are trying to reframe the conversation, changing the way we treat and talk about mental health, and showing that no one should struggle alone.

SPEAKING OUT For Shelly-Ann Buchanan, shedding this shameful silence made the world of a difference for herself and others. “For the longest time [mental illness] has been stigmatized, and we don’t talk about it, but we need to remove the stigma,” she shared on what led her to open up.

She had been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after experiencing a stampede at a dancehall concert in New York in 1995. I didn’t know her then, but we both happened to be at the Steeplechase Park event in Coney Island that night. Gunshots rang out, and the ensuing frantic stampede left 36 people injured. She grew fearful of large crowds, and became further traumatized by the 9/11 attacks six years later.

She eventually started to receive counseling and was prescribed medication. But she always kept her struggles private, until a friend told Shelly-Ann that her life looked perfect. This everyday comment hit a chord, inspiring her to share her story on Facebook.

“The bravest thing that I personally believe that I have ever done was to admit to myself that my men-

THERE ARE STILL MANY CHURCHES AND CHRISTIANS WHO DISBELIEVE OR EVEN DISTRUST HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS REGARDING MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT

tal health needed attention,” wrote Shelly-Ann in her original post. “This, in spite of a culture that barely recognizes mental illness, but widely ridicules it. It is a taboo subject in families... whispered among friends....laughed at by foes.”

The overwhelming supportive response to the post surprised her, and others shared their stories. The most moving feedback, however, came from close to home. “My mom embraced me for my bravery, and I was most afraid of shaming her.”

WHEN PRAYER ISN’T ENOUGH For many in the Caribbean, there is also a common belief that religion alone can save us from our mental health issues. In his ministry, Reverend James Hazel (hailing from St. Kitts and Nevis) learned firsthand the need for clinical therapy in addition to prayer.

After many years as a pastor, he decided to explore the powerful potential of this field further, going on to study social work. For him, clinical counseling is a necessary component for treating mental health issues, and can become a vital part of one’s faith journey. “Even in Jesus’ ministry, he had a holistic approach, not just spiritual, but physical and mental,” explains Reverend Hazel. “I thought I [too] could use social work to widen my ministry.”

He acknowledges that there are still many churches and Christians who disbelieve or even distrust healthcare professionals regarding mental health treatment, but he specifically works to counter this narrative by educating his congregation. This is especially true for the youngest and most vulnerable in the church, struggling with behavioral conditions. “These children need both individual and family counseling. We have to work with that child’s environment as well.”

SEEKING HELP Starting this medically-guided intervention remains a major hurdle within the Caribbean community, says Dr. Joan Muir, a clinical psychologist specializing in family therapy in South Florida. She finds that individuals from the Caribbean lag behind other ethnic groups when it comes to seeking mental health services for more chronic conditions. Caribbean-Americans who are educated in the U.S. are more likely to seek psychotherapy to help their children or their marriage. But they are not as willing to seek help early for more serious disorders like depression and schizophrenia. Part of what creates this stigma is the lack of exposure, argues Dr. Muir.

“Life is challenging. If you’re feeling overwhelmed all the time, you should go to a mental health professional. It may not necessarily be a mental illness, but you may still need help by having a conversation with a skilled professional who is listening and assessing.”

The range of care providers varies based on education and training, including psychologists (who require a doctoral degree), and psychiatrists (who have a medical degree and can prescribe medication), as well as social workers, family therapists and mental health counselors.

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CULTURE // MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

MORE SOCIAL CHANGE WILL ONLY HAPPEN IF WE CONTINUE TELLING OUR STORIES. THERE IS SUCH A VULNERABILITY IN SHARING WHAT FEELS LIKE A FLAW, A WEAKNESS. BUT IT FEELS EMPOWERING TO BE UNAFRAID AND UNASHAMED.

When choosing a provider, she points out that it’s important to find the right person. Be sure to ask about their qualifications, whether they’ve treated someone like you before, and whether they understand your cultural background. Treatment may involve medication as well as talk therapy, which “is focused on your behavior, motivations for that behavior and your emotions,” Dr. Muir explains.

THE JOURNEY AHEAD Changing attitudes across the Caribbean diaspora towards mental illness will need more than a visit to the doctor’s office, however. It will also require

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broader healthcare options and greater social support for patients and their caretakers, a reality both in the Caribbean and in the U.S. This is something Simone (name changed per request) learned firsthand when her mother was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia.

Simone was sent away from Barbados to America as a child to live with her aunt, so she didn’t fully understand the scope of her mother’s condition early on. “She had a few breakdowns, but I never got the opportunity to talk to her about it,” she recalls. “There was such a stigma attached.”

As an adult, Simone became aware of her mother’s condition after she lost everything, including her home, and had to move in with Simone in South Florida. As a symptom of her condition, she actively refused medication and counseling, required intensive care, and had to be involuntarily hospitalized twice.

Simone quickly discovered how limited the support system was for chronic conditions, as she struggled to find more hands-on care for her mother. “There’s so much red tape, it feels like you’re just drowning,” she confessed. “It’s like a full-time job to get the help you need.” This gap in mental healthcare support inspired Simone to pursue a Masters Degree in mental illness and wellness. She plans to serve as a liaison for others in need of assistance.

“From step one, whatever you need, I want to put resources in the hands of people, that will help them.”

Finding these resources is even more challenging in the Caribbean, as my friend Jason (name changed per request) shared. I’ve known him since elementary school in Kingston.

What I didn’t know was that he’d been living with bipolar disorder for 25 years. He had his first episode when he was 22 years old, and dropped out of college as a result. He was hospitalized for about 2 weeks, and since then has been hospitalized around 10 more times.

Though his family and circle of friends have been extremely understanding, “the problem with mental health in Jamaica is employment,” says Jason. “I haven’t been able to stay on a job longer than a year. Something comes, I get sick on the job and then I have to leave.”

Jason now gets regular medication and therapy, and though he tried living on his own twice, he’s not able to be fully independent—especially financially.

Despite this lack of safety nets for those suffering from chronic conditions, Jason does see the tide changing. He is now part of a bipolar support group, and says there is more public advocacy on these issues, led by organizations like JaMHAN (Jamaica Mental Health Advocacy Network) and support group Mensana Jamaica.

More social change will only happen if we continue telling our stories. There is such a vulnerability in sharing what feels like a flaw, a weakness. But it feels empowering to be unafraid and unashamed. As the famed Caribbean-American writer and activist Audre Lorde once said, “I have a duty to speak the truth as I see it and share not just my triumphs, not just the things that felt good, but the pain. The intense, often unmitigated pain. It is important to share how I know survival is survival.”

TASTE THE ISLANDS // FROM SCREEN TO TABLE

FROM SCREEN TO TABLE NOW YOU CAN COOK LIKE THE CHEFS OF TASTE THE ISLANDS WRITER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

T

here is no greater joy, than the joy of a bellyful of Caribbean food. Readers around the world can share that feeling starting April 2020, when the first collaborative cookbook

by Hugh “Chef Irie” Sinclair, Cynthia “Chef Thia” Verna, and Island Origins publisher Calibe Thompson hits stands. The hardcover 240-page recipe collection titled “Taste the Islands: Culinary Adventures in a Caribbean Kitchen” will be available on Amazon and wherever books are sold. It’s filled with traditional and gourmet Caribbean recipes, interesting behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the making of the Taste the Islands TV show (which inspired the book), and colorful photos mostly by acclaimed photo artist David I. Muir. With our direct access, we were able to get the details on the book-writing process in the team’s own words.

“As executive producer of the TV series,” said Thompson, “I have a bird’s eye view to every angle of how it’s put together. Seeing the chefs grow as culinary professionals and as presenters throughout this process, facilitating the collaboration with the University Press of Florida, and being able to help tell the stories that tie the chapters together, makes me feel like I’m doing

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something really worthwhile for the legacy of our Caribbean contingent in the diaspora.”

EMOTIONS AND CULTURE “It was an interesting process,” Sinclair said about the journey from concept to completion. “From not knowing if it was going to happen, to getting word that we had found a publisher to work with us. Going through the motions of requirements like testing recipes and trying to adhere to deadlines was interesting because I had never done anything like that before. But it definitely was well worth the time.”

“It was really overwhelming,” said Verna about the project. Like Sinclair, “It was my first time being published, and it was no joke. It was a yearand-a-half long process so the ‘wait’ was heavy, but now that I can see a real book that I can hold in my hands, it’s a miracle and a blessing.

“I was able to bring a little bit of Africa, the Caribbean and the French to the project, so you could say you get to taste some of my personal Haitian history with the food that we made and the spices we used,” she shared.

In similar fashion, Sinclair mused, “The process

allowed me to showcase some of the things that relate to my roots—from where I was born in Jamaica, to some of the things I’ve learned in the industry. Bringing my Caribbean heritage to the table I thought was both cool and important as part of the process.”

THE BIG TAKEAWAY As for what they’d like people to take away from the book, Sinclair says, “I hope people see that Caribbean food is very multidimensional. It can be complex, it can be simple, but it’s always full of flavor. I hope that as they read and try the recipes, they’ll see how much love goes into cooking Caribbean food.”

Chef Thia appreciates how much of a milestone this is, another major accomplishment for a girl from Haiti with big dreams. “I would never in my life have imagined that I would be published, and by the University Press of Florida?! That’s huge!

People need to know that if I can do it, we all can do it.”

Fans of the Taste the Islands TV show can stay tuned for Season 3, coming to PBS stations and Create TV throughout the U.S. in 2021.

TASTE THE ISLANDS // RECIPES

PATE KODE (HAITIAN PATTIES)

BY CYNTHIA “CHEF THIA” VERNA PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

In Haiti many people in the rural areas, especially students, buy this deep-fried, meat-filled pie from street vendors.

It’s a complete meal in one pocket. Pate kode was thought of only as street food in the past, but in recent years, Haitian chefs have been changing that perception by focusing on foods from our roots and celebrating them with updated approaches. My version has a light, thin crust and a flavorful creole-style shredded chicken filling. The patty is golden and crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside.

Traditional pate kode has boiled eggs mixed in, but I’ve left them out. Add them if you like, and feel free to experiment with ground beef, codfish, or herring fillings instead of chicken.

Makes 4 to 6 patties

FOR THE FILLING: • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 tablespoon tomato paste • 1 teaspoon salt • 3 tablespoons evaporated milk • 1/4 cup minced red bell pepper • 1/4 cup minced green bell pepper • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes • 3 teaspoons Chef Thia’s spice* • 11/2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast • 1 teaspoon black pepper FOR THE DOUGH: • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus 1/2 cup to sprinkle on sticky dough • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 4 tablespoons butter, softened • 1 teaspoon Chef Thia’s Spice* • Vegetable oil for frying

MAKE THE FILLING: Heat the butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted, add the tomato paste, salt, evaporated milk, bell peppers, and onion and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Stir in the red pepper flakes and Chef Thia’s Spice, followed by the chicken.

Sprinkle the black pepper over the top and continue to cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until heated through.

Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sautéed mixture to cool.

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From Taste the Islands: Culinary Adventures in a Caribbean Kitchen

by Hugh Sinclair, Cynthia Verna, and Calibe Thompson. Gainesville: University Press of Florida, April 2020. Reprinted with permission.

AVAILABLE APRIL 2020 ON AMAZON AND WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD.

MAKE THE DOUGH: Put the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl and stir well. Make a small well in the center of the mixture and add the butter, Chef Thia’s Spice, and 1/2 cup cold water. Stir until a smooth and elastic dough is formed, adding up to 1/4 cup more cold water by the tablespoon if it’s too dry. Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rest for 15 minutes.

On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut out rectangles that are 4 by 3 inches.

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For each dough rectangle, place a little of the sautéed mixture in the center, fold, and pinch the sides closed.

Heat the oil in a large frying pan or deepfryer to 350°F. Fry the patties until golden and crispy, 2 to 3 minutes per side, carefully spooning the hot oil over them as they cook.

Remove the patties from the oil and place on paper towels to drain. Serve hot.

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Find the recipe for Chef Thia’s Spice at tastetheislandstv.com.

BREADFRUIT PUMPKIN SALAD

BY HUGH “CHEF IRIE” SINCLAIR PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

I grew up eating breadfruit boiled, mashed, roasted, or fried. I always heard people talking about breadfruit salad and so wanted to make something similar. Here, I pair it with pumpkin for contrasting color and texture. Both flavors play nicely with the selection of spices and seasonings I’ve used.

The texture of both must be soft, but still firm. It’s easy to overcook the pumpkin, so be careful. It needs to be firm enough to not fall apart when you start stirring it together with the other ingredients.

You can substitute butternut squash if you can’t find calabaza, but there is no substitute for breadfruit. You could use white sweet potato for a similar color and texture, but the flavor will be different, sweeter.

Serves 4

• 1 cup coconut milk • 3 cups peeled and chopped breadfruit (1/2-inch cubes) • 3 cups peeled and chopped calabaza pumpkin (1/2-inch cubes) • 2 tablespoons canola oil • 2 tablespoons honey • 2 teaspoons mustard • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning • 2 teaspoons garlic powder • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro • 4 scallions, chopped • 1/4 cup julienned red onion • 1/2 Scotch bonnet pepper, julienned • Juice of 1/2 lime

From Taste the Islands: Culinary Adventures in a Caribbean Kitchen

by Hugh Sinclair, Cynthia Verna, and Calibe Thompson. Gainesville: University Press of Florida, April 2020. Reprinted with permission.

AVAILABLE APRIL 2020 ON AMAZON AND WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD.

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Heat the coconut milk in a large saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the coconut milk to simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, until it has thickened and reduced by about half. Allow to cool, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill completely.

2

In two separate pots, bring salted water to a boil. Add the breadfruit to one and boil for 15 to 20 minutes, just until tender.

Add the calabaza to the other and boil for 10 to 15 minutes, just until tender. Be careful not to overcook. Drain and allow to cool.

To the chilled coconut milk, add the oil, honey, mustard, salt, black pepper, Ca-

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jun seasoning, and garlic powder and whisk to combine.

In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked breadfruit and pumpkin, cilantro, scallions, red onion, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Add the coconut dressing and the lime juice, and gently toss the salad to coat. Serve chilled.

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TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT REVIEW

ALBERTE’S RESTAURANT

TUCKED AWAY RIGHT NEXT TO THE FUNKY BUDDHA BREWERY IN OAKLAND PARK, ALBERTE’S RESTAURANT BRINGS A MODERN TWIST TO HAITIAN AND CARIBBEAN FLAVORS WITH A FRESH BUFFET AND À LA CARTE MENU. THEY OPEN EARLY, CLOSE LATE, AND PROUDLY SERVE BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER. I STOPPED BY FOR LUNCH TO SAMPLE THEIR POPULAR BUFFET LINE, FEATURING CLASSIC ISLAND FARE. WRITER DAVID I. MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

AS I WAS SEATED, I met with co-owner Wil Gimes to learn about the restaurant. He and his wife Alberte Marseille first started the business 13 years ago with the first Alberte’s in Lake Worth, Florida. Four years ago, they opened the Broward County restaurant to serve more of their loyal customers who were regularly making the long trek north to their original location.

For appetizers, Wil offered me a classic Haitian “fritaille,” which includes an assortment of fried specialties. I started with the grilled conch fritters. The flavor was truly great—spicy, but

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not too peppery—with a firm crust and soft, lightly salted interior. Their fried turkey and pork also had great flavor, with a crunchy exterior and a light seasoning of Caribbean spices.

Their traditional Haitian accra, made from fried malanga (a ground provision also called coco or yam in the English-speaking Caribbean), proved equally crisp and seasoned.

For my main entree, I was served their amazing goat stew. The meat was tender, in a light gravy featuring a perfect blend of seasonings and garnished with sweet pepper, onions and

aromatic herbs. Servings of tostones (fried plantains) and rice and beans were added to the plate. They nailed the rice flavor to perfection.

However, I was surprised by the beans, as some were harder while most were soft, creating an unusual combination. Wil clarified that they “fry pinto beans with seasonings before boiling the rice,” creating the unique textural difference.

Alberte’s staff was attentive and proficient.

While I am not generally a fan of buffets at restaurants, Alberte’s did a great job at delivering tasty morsels with thoughtful presentation.

I didn’t save space for dessert on this first trip to Alberte’s, so I am certain to return. I’m really looking forward to trying their wraps, burgers, and sandwiches as they’ve demonstrated they know how to master Caribbean flavors.

Explore more at Alberte’s Restaurant, located at 1201 NE 38th St., Oakland Park, FL 33334.

TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

RESTAURANT

LISTING IN SOUTH FLORIDA

AVERAGE COST PER PERSON BEFORE DRINKS, TAX AND TIP. $ Under $10 / person $$ Under $20 / person $$$ Under $40 / person $$$$ Over $40 / person 925 NUEVO’S CUBANO’S | $ Cuban Serving succulent roast pork and delicious sandwiches.

925 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale

BAMBOO SHACK | $$ Bahamian Quick-service restaurant serving snacks and traditional Bahamian items.

18450 NW 2nd Ave, Miami Gardens

CLIVE’S CAFE | $ Jamaican Popular spot for jerk chicken and curry goat.

5890 NW 2nd Ave, Miami

ALBERTE’S RESTAURANT I $$ Haitian Unique and authentic Caribbean dishes, with live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

1201 NE 38th St, Oakland Park

BAHAMIAN REEF SEAFOOD RESTAURANT |$$$ Seafood Low-key and casual with colorful interior.

7836 NW 44th St, Sunrise

COLADA | $ Cuban Family-owned bakery serving savory and sweet Cuban treats and other Cuban cuisine.

525 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale

albertesrestaurant.com

ALEXSANDRA’S CARIBBEAN CAFE | $$ Caribbean, Jamaican Soak up some sun while enjoying their famous jerk chicken sandwich and patties.

235 E Commercial Blvd, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea ALI’S ROTI SHOP | $ Caribbean, Indian, Vegetarian Tiny counter-serve joint dishing up Trinidadian comfort food like doubles & aloo pie.

303 S State Road 7, Plantation LA BELLE JACMELIENNE CAFE | $$ Haitian Haitian décor and friendly staff serving up a wide array of Haitian cuisine.

3328 South University Dr, Miramar

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EL BOHIO DE MAMA | $$ Dominican Family style restaurant offering music, mofongo, shrimp and dancing.

2181 State Road 7, Margate BUTTERFLAKES | $ Jamaican Local spot for patties and hot food.

5100 W Commercial Blvd #3, Tamarac butterflakesbakery.com

CALYPSO RESTAURANT & RAW BAR | $$ Caribbean Try their Caribbean-style seafood and Jamaican jerk and curry dishes.

460 S Cypress Rd, Pompano Beach calypsorestaurant.com

CHEF CREOLE | $$ Haitian Simply delicious signature Haitian seafood.

200 NW 54th St, Miami, FL chefcreole.com

clivescafe.com

coladahouse.com

CONCH HEAVEN | $$ Bahamian Lots of conch based comfort foods, with locations in Miami, Plantation and Atlanta.

11275 NW 27th Ave, Miami conchheaven.com

DONNA’S CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican food all day, plus cocktails and Sunday brunch. Nine locations around South Florida.

5434 N University Drive, Lauderhill donnascaribbean.com

DUCKUNOO JAMAICAN KITCHEN | $$$ Jamaican Full-service and upscale, with indoor and outdoor dining, full bar, fine art, and an authentic jerk stand.

316 NW 24th St, Miami dukunoojamaicankitchen.com

ESTEFAN KITCHEN | $$$ Cuban Star-powered destination for upscale Cuban cuisine.

140 NE 39th St #133, Miami FIERY IRIE | $$ Caribbean All your favorite authentic Jamaican dishes.

100 S Flamingo Rd, Pembroke Pines fieryirie.com FINLEY’S BAHAMIAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian Try their breakfast served with johnny cakes or grits, lunch specials daily 2710 W Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach finleysbahamianrestaurant.com

HAVANA 1957 | $$ Cuban Quick bites in a buzzing backdrop with Havana memorabilia 405 Espanola Way, Miami Beach

CONCH KRAWL CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian, Seafood Enjoy traditional Bahamian and other Caribbean dishes.

2600 S University Dr #106, Miramar

DUNN’S RIVER | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican cuisine in a beautiful ambiance, serving the Hallandale area.

908 W Hallandale Beach Blvd, Hallandale Beach

DON ARTURO RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Serving traditional recipes & drinks in kid-friendly environment.

1198 SW 27th Ave, Fort Lauderdale

DUTCH POT JAMAICAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican cuisine.

3120 W Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale

ISLAND FUSION GRILL | $$ Jamaican, Cuban Jamaican, Cuban, Asian and Creole flavors with seafood and vegetarian options 4811 S State Rd 7, Davie, FL 33314

donarturorestaurant.com

dutchpotrestaurants.com

islandfusiongrill.com

havana1957.com

LC ROTI SHOP | $ Indian, Vegetarian Cash-only eatery, serving Caribbean eats & housemade roti with pepper sauce.

19505 NW 2nd Ave, Miami LITTLE HAVANA | $$ Cuban Authentic Cuban Cuisine 12727 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami littlehavanarestaurant. com

LOCALICIOUS JAX ICE CREAM | $ Ice Cream Old fashioned, hand made ice cream including Caribbean flavors.

4220 NW 12th St, Lauderhill JAMAICA KITCHEN | $$ Jamaican Known for their extra spicy beef patties 8736 SW 72nd St, Miami www.jamaicakitchen.com

JOY’S ROTI DELIGHT | $$ Trinidadian, Indian counter-service cafe with Indian-inspired Caribbean cuisine.

1205 NW 40th Ave, Lauderhill joysrotidelight.com

JUANA’S LATIN SPORTS BAR & GRILL | $$ Latin Casual Dominican, Puerto Rican & American sports bar and grill.

11602 City Hall Promenade, Miramar juanaslatinsportsbar.com

LALLO’S | $$ Caribbean, Indian Serves a wide variety of roti and the fresh catch of the day on a Friday.

1401 NW 39 Terrace, Lauderhill lalloscaribbeanrestaurant.com

LAS OLAS CAFE | $ Cuban Freshly squeezed juices and Cuban sandwiches.

644 6th St, Miami Beach lasolascafesb.com

LAS VEGAS CUBAN CUISINE | $$ Cuban, Latin American A dine-in hot spot with 16 South Florida locations offering Cuban meals and cocktails.

2807 E Oakland Park Blvd, Ft. Lauderdale Lasvegascubancuisine.com

EL MAGO DE LAS FRITAS | $ Cuban Cozy spot for Cuban burgers.

5828 SW 8th St, Miami elmagodelasfritas.com

JUANA LA CUBANA CAFE | $ Cuban Cuban sandwiches & dishes like ropa vieja & roast pork.

2850 SW 54th St, Fort Lauderdale juanalacubana.com

MANGU CAFE RESTAURANT | $$ Dominican Bare-bones Dominican spot serving pernil, goat stew, beer & wine.

2007 W 62nd St, Hialeah

MARIO’S CATALINA RESTAURANT | $$$ Cuban Dine in relaxing ambiance, eating Cuban and Spanish cuisine.

1611 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale EL OTRO TIESTO CAFE | $$ Dominican Dominican-Japanese fusion with a twist.

3023 Biscayne Blvd, Miami elotrotiestocafemiami.com

ORTANIQUE ON THE MILE | $$$$ Caribbean Fusion Island flavors, local ingredients, creative cocktails, tropical-themed decor.

278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables ortaniquerestaurants.com PADRINO’S CUBAN CUISINE | $$ Cuban Serving the best mariquitas, mojito and flan for the past 40 years.

1135 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale padrinos.com

PANFRIDAYS | $$ Jamaican Try their popular jerk chicken and shrimp pasta.

7183 W Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill panfridays.com

POLLO EL COJIDO | $$ Dominican Delicious mofongo, quesadilla and sancocho.

5859 N University Dr, Pompano Beach

POLLO TIPICO | $ Dominican Traditional Dominican dishes in a laid-back atmosphere 5011 State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale PUERTO SAGUA RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Known for their soup and oxtail stews 700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach REED’S CATERING & CONCESSIONS | $$ Seafood, Caribbean Late night seafood truck, with a specialty of conch salad.

12203 NW 27th Ave, Miami REGGAE PON THE GRILLE | $$ Jamaican, Caribbean Buffet style dining offering tasty Jamaican dishes.

8032 W McNab Rd, North Lauderdale

SHALAMA’S HALAL ROTI SHOP | $ Caribbean, Indian Casual ethnic take-out spot with authentic roti, curries and pepper sauce.

1432 State Road 7, Margate SHEIKS BAKERY & CAFE | $ Caribbean, Indian East & West Indian food including halal meats, spices & baked goods.

154 University Dr, Pembroke Pines sheiksbakery.com

SWIRL WINE BISTRO | $$ Caribbean, Wine Bar With fresh, high-quality ingredients their culinary team offers a variety of cuisines and wines.

1435 Lyons Rd, Coconut Creek

reggaeonthegrille.com

ROCKSTEADY JAMAICAN BISTRO | $$$ Jamaican, Caribbean Strip-mall cafe with Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, curries & crab fritters.

2399 N Federal Hwy - Unit C, Boca Raton rocksteadyjamaicanbistro.com SAZON CUBAN CUISINE | $ Cuban Tasty Caribbean cuisine and live weekend entertainment.

7305 Collins Ave, Miami Beach sazoncubancuisine.com

VERSAILLES | $$ Cuban, Latin American Serving tasty Cuban cuisine and culture for four decades.

The gauge of the community’s pulse.

3555 Southwest 8th Street, Miami versaillesrestaurant.com

YARUMBA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE | $$ Dominican Try their traditional stews or Churrasco with live music.

4740 NW 167th St, Miami Gardens yarumbarestaurant.com

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ENTERTAINMENT // EVENT CALENDAR

EVENT

CALENDAR MARCH

03/14 - 03/15

Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival

WHERE: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida ADMISSION: $45 - $1,150 INFO: jazzinthegardens.com Artist line-up for 2020 includes Charlie Wilson, H.E.R., Jill Scott, Kirk Franklin, Mary J. Blige, SWV and The Roots with Bilal.

03/05 - 03/08 WHERE: Sunshine Grove, Okeechobee, Florida ADMISSION: $35 - $3,500 INFO: okeechobeefest.com A four-day experience, filled with multi-genre music, immersive art and transformative events, deep in the heart of Florida’s wilderness.

03/07 - 03/08

Carnaval on the Mile 2020

WHERE: Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, Florida ADMISSION: FREE INFO: carnavalmiami.com/events/carnavalon-the-mile A weekend-long festival in the heart of Coral Gables featuring the best of local art, live music, fine cuisine, and children’s entertainment. 150 plastic artists on display and 50 artisan vendors.

03/13 - 03/14

Thou Art Woman

WHERE: Fort Lauderdale, Florida ADMISSION: $10- $45 INFO: thouartwoman.com A celebration of LGBTQ women and allies including art exhibition and performance night.

March 13 at Art Serve and March 14 at the Broward Center.

03/13 - 03/15

BRT Weekend: Jamaica 3-Day Caribbean Music Festival

WHERE: Ocho Rios, Jamaica ADMISSION: $300 - $500 INFO: brtweekend.com Beach Road Trip Weekend, or #BRTweekend, is the ultimate destination, day-party series.

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Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival

03/19 - 03/21

04/16

Havana World Music Festival

Jamaica Carnival April 2020

WHERE: Parque Almendares, La Habana, Cuba ADMISSION: $16 - $170 INFO: havanaworldmusic.com/en/home A musical event that hosts artists from different genres, from Cuba and around the world.

WHERE: New Kingston, Jamaica ADMISSION: $0 - $425 INFO: carnivalinjamaica.com Revelers and parties morning to night throughout the month of April.

03/20 - 03/22

04/16 - 05/04

Reggae Rise Up Music Festival 2020

WHERE: Vinoy Park, Saint Petersburg, Florida ADMISSION: $25 - $240 INFO: reggaeriseupflorida.com 3 full days of amazing music, food, merchandise, art, activities and good vibes.

03/23 - 04/05

Miami Open 2020

WHERE: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida ADMISSION: $10 - $257 INFO: miamiopen.com Annual tennis tournament featuring the sports most renowned male and female players.

APRIL

04/04 - 05/02

St. Thomas Carnival

WHERE: St. Thomas, Virgins Island ADMISSION: $0 - $35 INFO: vicarnival.com A month-long event that kicks off with pageants and calypso shows, with hard-core partying at the Village, J’ouvert, Food Fair, two parades and fireworks.

St. Maarten Carnival

WHERE: Philipsburg, Sint Maarten ADMISSION: $0 - $195 INFO: sxm-carnival.com Like mixing New Year’s revelry, costumed parades and lots of loud calypso, soca and steelpan band music together.

04/25

Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival 2020

WHERE: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, Florida ADMISSION: $10 - $20 INFO: tampabaycaribbeancarnival.com Enjoy varied events according to Caribbean tradition.

MAY 05/03

MoBay City Run

WHERE: Montego Bay, St James, Jamaica ADMISSION: $11 - $15 INFO: mobaycityrun.com Raises funds to support struggling university students, hungry to fulfill their dreams and aspirations of attaining tertiary level education.

05/09 - 05/10

The Taste the Islands Experience 2020

WHERE: Charles F. Dodge City Center, Pembroke Pines, Florida ADMISSION: $65 - $154 INFO: ttiexperience.com A weekend of Caribbean culinary events, featuring local and international chefs and mixologists, tropical ambiance and fabulous people (Mother’s Day weekend).

05/16

22ND ANNUAL HAITIAN COMPAS FESTIVAL

WHERE: Mana Wynwood, Miami, Florida ADMISSION: $45 - $1,150 INFO: haitiancompasfestival.com Celebrating 21 years of music and showing appreciation to pioneers in the industry.

05/16

39TH COCONUT GROVE BAHAMIAN GOOMBAY FESTIVAL

WHERE: Elizabeth Virrick Park, Miami, Florida ADMISSION: $0 - $100 INFO: coconutgrovebahamiangoombayfestival.com A celebration of the legacy of a Bahamianrooted community known as Coconut Grove.

05/20

Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival

WHERE: Harbor Square Arena, Aruba ADMISSION: FREE INFO: visitaruba.com/things-to-do/arubaevents/aruba-soul-beach-music-festival

Held on Memorial Day weekend and includes many star-studded artists and comedians.

06/20

05/22 - 05/25

WHERE: Meyer Amphitheater, 104 Datura St, West Palm Beach, Florida ADMISSION: $25 - $50 INFO: browardpalmbeach.com/event/3rd-annual-jah-cultural-festival-10450862 An annual music festival celebrating Caribbean-American Heritage month.

Latin Caribbean Festival Martinique 2020

WHERE: Karibea Sainte Luce Hotel, SainteLuce, Martinique ADMISSION: $15 - $150 INFO: latincaribbeanfestival.com An annual Salsa Bachata and Kizomba International Festival in both Martinique and Saint-Martin.

05/24

3rd Annual J.A.H Cultural Festival

06/26 - 06/27

Aruba Summer Music Festival 2020

Best of the Best Music Fest

WHERE: Harbor Square Arena, Oranjestad, Aruba ADMISSION: $75 - $225 INFO: arubasmf.com This multi-day event delivers spectacular performances to thousands of locals and tourists!

JUNE

06/26 - 06/28

WHERE: Bayfront Park, Miami, Florida ADMISSION: $40 - $399 INFO: bestofthebestconcert.com Nothing but the best performances in Pop, R&B, Soca, Reggae, Hip-Hop and Caribbean music.

06/17 - 06/21

American Black Film Festival 2020

WHERE: Loews Miami Beach, 1601 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida ADMISSION: $335 - $1,350 INFO: abff.com An annual event dedicated to empowering black artists and showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent.

Caribbean Village Food & Rum Festival

WHERE: 16801 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar, Broward County 33027 ADMISSION: $20 - $399 INFO: caribbeanvillage.net A family-friendly event that features entertainment for the entire family including arts and crafts, food tasting, and cook-off competitions.

FEATURE // JERK 2019

GOOD FOOD, GOO

D VIBES:

GRACE JAMAICAN JERK FESTIVAL 2019 WRITER DR. MARY PHOTOGRAPHY RJ DEED & DAVID I. MUIR (ISLAND SYNDICATE)

The crowd of thousands cheers along the night’s performances under cover of the Miramar Amphitheater.

Chris Martin thrills the crowd with his enchanting voice and a high energy performance of hits like “Cheater’s Prayer” and “I’m a Big Deal.”

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NEW VENUE, NEW VIBES! THAT WAS THIS PAST YEAR’S THEME AT THE GRACE JAMAICAN JERK FESTIVAL, HELD NOV. 10. THE CARIBBEAN FOODIE PARADISE CERTAINLY SUSTAINED ITS FESTIVE FLAIR AT THE MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK AMPHITHEATER, WHERE NEARLY 10,000 PATRONS TURNED OUT TO ENJOY THE PULSATING SOUND OF REGGAE MUSIC, CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS AND SUCCULENT JERK DISHES. WE TAKE A MOMENT TO LOOK BACK AT THE EVENT’S HIGHLIGHTS, FROM COOKING SHOWDOWNS TO FIERY MUSICAL PERFORMANCES.

Never knew a Grace Jamaican Style Patty could taste so good, as this patron proves diving into the festival’s delicious bites.

DJ Delano of Renaissance (R) and DJ Wizard (L) keep attendees on their feet with the hypnotic sounds of Caribbean music.

Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam (2nd R) is all smiles as he claims victory at the Publix Cooking Competition over competitor Cat Coore of Third World (far R), while experts (L-R) Chef Danny Peñalo Dominguez, host Hugh “Chef Irie” Sinclair and Chef Robinson E. Joseph are all smiles.

winner claims Eating Contest tty Pa yle St an on being the aic The Grace Jam d official bragging rights, up an ize . pr es pi meat his $500 of the delicious first to down 5

Families of jerk fans young, and young at heart, travel from near and far to attend the festival. Oh and cheese, we gotcha!

Patrons are invited to explore the fascinating artifacts on display at the Caribbean Culinary Museum pop-up exhibition.

This stunning model struts her stuff in a prismatic, Africaninspired dress at the fashion show featuring Covered by Grace African Designs, from designer Cholla Williamson.

These stylish folks includ of the Greater Fort Lau ing (L-R) Caroline Rucker, decorator Ellen Wo ods, Albert Tucker of Jamaican Jerk Festivaderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Edd l USA, Inc, keep cool and y collected under the exc Edwards, CEO lusive VIP tent.

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FINAL THOUGHT

FOR HEALTH & STRENGTH WRITER CALIBE THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

I HAD A BIT OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN LAST YEAR. I THINK I WAS WAY TOO STRESSED AND EVENTUALLY HIT A MENTAL WALL. MANY OF WHAT I THOUGHT WERE MY MINOR PHOBIAS BECAME AMPLIFIED. I DIDN’T WANT TO LEAVE MY HOUSE. I DIDN’T WANT TO TOUCH ANYONE OR ANYTHING. I STILL DON’T WANT FOOD THAT I DIDN’T SEE BEING PREPARED.

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THERE WERE TIMES when I was so uncomfortable in my own skin that I wondered if I might harm myself to make the anxiety go away. I’m a pretty jovial person by nature, so I still genuinely smiled and laughed through all of this. It was both surprising and troubling to learn that sincere joy and overwhelming distress can coexist in the same mind at the same time.

I’m still on the road back to some level of normalcy, but I only felt like I was making progress after starting therapy. One hour each week, I sit in front of my computer and video chat with a guy named Anthony in another state. He listens without making me feel like he’s judging me. He suggests coping mechanisms I can try, rather than telling me what I “need” to do to fix myself. He allows me to talk, rather than changing the subject or telling me about his own problems, because he’s trying to minimize mine. And he doesn’t dismiss the things I’m feeling because I’m being “ridiculous” or I need to “grow up” or I’m a strong woman so I can just suck it up and get through it.

These are the opinions I had heard from friends and family for years before I started treatment. These people cared about me, but most don’t know, or don’t want to see, when little problems are becoming big ones. People only began accepting that what they considered “annoying pet peeves” may have been signs of greater concern when they learned I started therapy.

When you’re a well-educated, highly accomplished, push-through-your-emotions-and-get-it-done, kick-ass boss, people believe you can just resolve any personal issues on your own. But as we’ve seen with the many accomplished public figures who have taken their own lives—Anthony Bourdain and Kate Spade are some recent examples—being capable in your professional life doesn’t make you equipped to tackle mental health issues on your own.

In setting the direction for this issue of the magazine, we thought about strength in general— physical, financial, spiritual and mental. As shown in our health stories this issue, there are Caribbean people doing an excellent job of helping others get physically fit, and helping them look good while they’re at it. The two young stars featured in our cover stories exemplify what’s possible when physical and mental strength combine. There are incredible destinations that facilitate a strong and healthy lifestyle, as we explored in our travel feature. The strength of character shown by the two female entrepreneurs featured in our inspiration section is truly admirable.

And the performance of one of our Caribbean stock exchanges is the strongest in the world.

Still, the story on mental health connected with me the most. I imagine it will be the most impactful to our readers too, although many of them won’t admit it. I asked a friend of mine about her family member’s mental health before he took his own life, and her response was that he didn’t have a mental illness. Though many of us conflate the two ideas—mental health and mental illness—they are not the same thing.

Recognizing that we have needs does not make us ungrateful for the blessings we have. Acknowledging that we need help does not make us weak.

And of all the prayers I’ve learned, the easiest for me to connect with at this point in my life, the one that seems most relevant to the most people, is the one that asks for health and strength.

Here in The Bahamas, we do things differently.

Our calm after the storm means shaking it off, rebuilding and never missing a beat. Our spirit keeps us movin’.

Our heritage keeps us dancin’. Our shores keep us chillin’.

And our visitors—from first-timers to long-time friends— keep us smilin’. This is The Bahamas and we’re still rockin’.

Visit Bahamas.com

If I could do one thing, I’d tell the world she counts.

Communities are as rich and diverse as their needs. That’s why completing the 2020 Census matters. It’s a safe and confidential step toward having an impact on how public funds flow through our communities. That could mean more resources in your area for special needs. It’s within your control.

Learn more at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.